DUP and SF in water charges moves

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The DUP has said a financial package from the treasury as well as addressing water charges would be a pre-condition for a return to devolution.

Party leader Ian Paisley also said its first choice would be the finance ministry if power-sharing is restored.

Meanwhile, Sinn Fein has called on the parties to unite against water charges.

Mitchel McLaughlin said trade unionists and postal staff should not process or deliver bills until politicians have had time to address the matter.

The Northern Ireland Assembly election will take place on 7 March.

Speaking at the launch of a DUP Water Rates pamphlet, deputy leader Peter Robinson said: "For the DUP this issue has not just appeared on the political agenda in the last few weeks and months but has been the focus of our attention for years.

"The fundamental problem for many of the other parties on this issue has been that they were part of the original problem and given the stance that they are presently taking, they cannot be part of the solution.

"We continue to make clear that this issue must be resolved before devolution can be resumed."

House prices will be linked to the value of homes in NI

The new water charging system, linked to the value of homes, starts in April.

Sinn Fein's Mitchel McLaughlin said people should not have to pay twice for water and an incoming executive would ensure that.

Speaking at the launch of his party's leaflet opposing water charges, he added:

"We are calling on the trade union movement who have taken on a very, very staunch stand on this issue not to process the water bills until the politicians have had the opportunity to deal with the British government on this issue.

"We are calling on the postal workers not to deliver the bills. Don't put the onus on the householders who are most vulnerable to the counter measures, the debt recovery counter measures the British government will introduce.

"We do believe we can create the space for an incoming executive to resolve this matter."